I grew up reading two sections of the newspaper, the comics, and Ann Landers.  After years of reading, and observing life, I came up with my Ann Landers Theory;

You are never the only one.

Reading is one thing, living is another.  They go hand in hand, as we receive words, thoughts and theories from print, we live the life of our accumulated choices, thoughts, actions and reactions.

Karma is the belief that your past lives dictate where you re now (super-simplified answer). Free Choice is working with the ability to make a choice based on your freedom in being human. Free to choose, and not have it be a fate or pre-determined situation.

Free choice goes hand in hand with Karma by working with your past life choices and the level of soul evolution you achieved. Your soul continues to grow as the situations of your life give you the opportunity to evolve.

One lifetime, you make bad choices, next lifetime, you get a little better, etc. etc.

Your past life karma brings you into this lifetime with the parents and family that you surrounded yourself with for the opportunities they would provide for you to take the high road.